What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
heavily
Example
The box was too heavily loaded for me to carry alone. [heavily: adverb]
Example
She sighed heavily, feeling the weight of her responsibilities. [heavily: adverb]
severely
Example
The storm severely damaged the house. [severely: adverb]
Example
The teacher punished the student severely for cheating. [severely: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Heavily is more commonly used than severely in everyday language. Heavily is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while severely is more limited in its usage and is usually reserved for more serious or negative situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between heavily and severely?
Both heavily and severely can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, severely is often associated with a more serious or formal tone due to its negative connotation.
